Hydlo and Friends 2.0 - Tipi Talks

Wildlife is very important in Eeyou traditional activities, and it is highly dependent on water and shoreline conditions. With the potential La Grande capacity upgrades, changes in water levels, flows and salinity could impact habitats including wetlands, which could in turn affect the presence of animals on the territory.

To provide context, an analysis of numerous previous study reports (from the 1970s to present) was carried out to describe how environmental and wildlife conditions have changed over time in relation to hydrology and other natural and human influences, such as wildfires and recreational hunting. Combined with information shared by Cree land users, this work offers an overall picture of how caribou, moose and beaver use the territory between the La Grande estuary and La Grande 4 reservoir.

Find out more in the Fact Sheet.

Navigation safety and shoreline stability are important for land users, as they directly affect travel and the use of La Grande Rivière. Bank, shore and channel conditions can be affected by changes in water levels and flow.

To better understand the current situation and possible impacts, a survey was carried out in summer 2025 with Eeyou land users. Observations were made on selected segments downstream of La Grande-1, Robert-Bourassa (La Grande-2), La Grande-3 and La Grande-4 generating stations, extending to the river mouth. Simulation studies were also conducted to examine possible changes in water levels and flow that could result from the potential La Grande capacity upgrades. All observations and data collected are currently being analyzed to identify and assess impacts on riverbanks, shorelines and delta dynamics.

Final results will be reviewed at the Technical Table and shared with the three concerned communities in Fall 2026. If needed, results from these studies will help support measures to reduce and mitigate impacts.

Find out more in the Fact Sheet.

Hydro‑Québec and the Cree Nation established the Ayimihiituunaanuwich Joint Process to assess the technical, environmental, social and cultural aspects of the potential capacity upgrades to Robert‑Bourassa, La Grande‑3 and La Grande‑4 generating stations.

The Technical Table is tasked with developing and implementing the environmental assessment program. The goal of this program is to draw up a current portrait of the natural and social environment, as well as assess the scope and impacts of the potential capacity increases.

For a description of the various environmental studies and their location, see the environmental studies program and the map of the study area.